New Peer-Run Mental Health Crisis Respite House on Southern Tier Close Up

The Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier (MHAST) has opened a new, peer-run, short-term crisis respite house for people experiencing an emotional or mental health crisis that offers a unique approach to healing.

Emily Childress, the director of Our House, is the featured guest on the September 22 edition of the weekly, local public affairs program, Southern Tier Close Up.

Like the rest of the staff at Our House, Childress has faced her own mental wellness issues and talks about how first-hand experiences of staff aid the residents participating in the short-term residential program.

Our House is for adults in Broome County, is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week but offers a unique, fluid approach to treatment and support as guests have their own bedroom are responsible for their own medications and mails and can come and go as necessary to continue family, work or school commitments as well as attend appointments.

People participating in the program face a wide variety of issues that can include anxiety, depression, anger management or isolation issues.

Childress also touches on dealing with stigmas associated with mental health issues, treatment and recovery.

Our House was introduced in June and is modeled after Rose House in the Hudson Valley region for 20 years.

Information on MHAST and upcoming events can be found at www.yourmha.com. Anyone who feels they can benefit from the support and services at Our House should call (607) 771-8888, extension 350 to discuss arrangements.

Southern Tier Close Up is heard Saturdays at 12:10 p.m. on News Radio 1290 WNBF.